The Foundation features an original group of seven residential modules that are available to writers, translators, and other creative individuals for residencies of varying lengths. Hanging from the openwork canopy surrounding the Foundation, these living spaces are called “treehouses” and offer ideal conditions to anyone looking to start, continue, or put the final touches on a writing or translating project.

Residences are open to all types of writing. Priority is given to writers and translators but the residences are open to other disciplines where writing is at the heart of the project. Residencies can be granted for individual projects or projects in pairs.

In 2019, a percentage of the residences will be dedicated to nature writing, a form of fiction or creative non-fiction that raises awareness of nature, prepares for a sustainable way of living, and helps to better understand socio-environmental interconnections and the impact of human actions on nature.

General Terms and Conditions

Residences are available for all types of writers engaged in literary creation. While we give priority to writers and translators, we are also open to any other discipline as long as writing is at the heart of the project. Stays in the Jan Michalski Foundation can be granted for individual projects or projects in pairs. For example: writer-translator, writer-other discipline, writer-writer etc.

Location

The Jan Michalski Foundation lies at the foot of the Swiss Jura Mountains in Montricher. The village is approximately 30 minutes from Lausanne and one hour from Geneva. It is possible to reach Montricher from Morges by train.

Eligibility criteria

There are no age or nationality restrictions

Beginners are accepted

Selection criteria and process

Applications will be assessed based on three criteria: the quality of the project, the candidate’s professional background and whether or not the duration of the stay matches the scope of the project. Beginners’ applications are assessed based on the quality of the project and the motivation they are able to convey in their application.

A panel of experts chaired by Mrs. Vera Michalski-Hoffmann will make a decision on all applications.

Selected candidates will be contacted individually and a period of residence will be suggested. Only selected candidates will be notified.

Reasons for non-selection will not be provided by the panel.

Benefits:

Residents’ travel costs to and from their home address will be covered by the Foundation.

Residents are granted a monthly allowance of CHF 1200.

The Foundation provides breakfast and lunch for residents and the village has a small grocery shop.

Electric bikes are available for residents.

Montricher train station, with regular connections to Morges, is situated two kilometers from the Foundation.

Residents have free access to the library during the day.

Residents are free to participate in cultural activities organized by the Foundation.

Schedule

The application forms for 2019 will be available online starting 1 May 2018 and are due latest on 31 August 2018

Selection panel: October 2018

Announcement of selected candidates: November 2018

Arrival of the first wave of selected residents: February 2019

How to apply

Applications are to be registered and submitted online. Please make sure you follow each step and send all of the requested documents.